The Church in the 19th and 20th Centuries: Challenges and Renewal
A Time of Suspicion and Change
The 19th century brought great changes to society, challenging the Church to analyze new trends. Darwin’s theory of evolution and Marx’s theories on the dependence of social life on economic infrastructure did not facilitate the Church’s approach to modern thought. The rise of nationalism also led to clashes between supporters of Italian unification and the papacy.
Protagonists of History
Pius IX (1846-1878)
Pius IX’s papacy was controversial due to his stance on Italian unification and his confrontation with liberalism. Key events during his pontificate include the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception (1864), the Syllabus of Errors (1864), and the First Vatican Council (Vatican I), which defined papal infallibility on matters of faith and morals.
Leo XIII (1878-1903)
Leo XIII initiated a period of adaptation of the Church to modern society, particularly the growing labor movement. His encyclical Rerum Novarum laid the foundation for the Church’s social doctrine.
A New Impetus for the Life of the Church
Despite the challenges, the Church experienced a period of growth and renewal:
- New Religious Congregations: Many founders established religious orders adapted to the times, focused on serving the needy.
- Expansion of Evangelization: A revival of missionary work occurred, driven by both established and new religious orders.
- Emergence of Christian Trade Unionism: Beginning in Spain in 1864, Christian trade unions aimed to spread Christian beliefs, promote worker associations, provide financial support, and organize cultural and recreational activities.
A Difficult Beginning to the 20th Century
Europe faced numerous crises in the first half of the 20th century, including World War I, the Russian Revolution, the Great Depression, the rise of fascism, and World War II. These events hindered the Church’s reflection on its mission. However, the loss of the Papal States granted the popes greater freedom from political affairs, allowing them to focus on their pastoral mission.
The Popes of This Period
- Pius X (1903-1914): Renewed the Church’s liturgical life.
- Benedict XV (1914-1922): Made constant appeals for peace during World War I.
- Pius XI (1922-1939): Promoted lay participation, encouraged missionary expansion, and fostered dialogue with the scientific world.
- Pius XII (1939-1958): Demonstrated the Church’s ability to incorporate philosophical and scientific developments into its thinking.
Internal Renewal of the Church
The Church sought to update its methods and customs:
- Liturgical Renewal: Driven by Pius X, the liturgical renewal emphasized the importance of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
- Participation of the Laity: Pius XI promoted Catholic Action, encouraging lay involvement in the Church’s mission.
- Engagement with New Peoples and Nations: The Church distanced itself from colonial policies and embraced the cultures of new nations, appointing indigenous bishops and clergy.
The Reasons for a New Council
In 1959, Pope John XXIII announced his intention to convene an ecumenical council (Vatican II) with the following goals:
- Aggiornamento (Updating): To update the life of the Church.
- Ecumenism: To seek Christian unity.
- Engagement with the Modern World: To address the transformations brought about by the two World Wars and other major events.
Vatican II (1962-1965)
After three years of preparation, Vatican II opened in 1962. John XXIII died during the council, and Paul VI continued his work, bringing it to a close in 1965.
A Different Council
Vatican II was unique in several ways:
- Universality and Magnitude: Around 2,500 Council Fathers participated, with a majority representing continents and nations beyond Europe.
- Ecumenism: Observers from other Christian denominations attended.
- Connection to Society: The Council Fathers believed the issues discussed concerned all humanity.
- Impact on Society: Media coverage brought the council’s deliberations to the world.